KUMAR PRABHAT | DUMKA
A two-day faculty development workshop on “Gender Sensitization and Inclusion” commenced on Monday at Sido Kanhu Murmu University (SKMU), Dumka, under the auspices of the Jharkhand State Faculty Development Academy (JSFDA), Department of Higher and Technical Education, Government of Jharkhand. Running through August 3 and 4, the program brings together educators from all constituent and affiliated colleges under the university to strengthen inclusive practices across academic institutions.
Delivering the inaugural address, SKMU Vice-Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) Kunul Kandir highlighted that fostering gender sensitivity goes beyond women’s empowerment to form the cornerstone of an equitable and just society. She emphasized that higher education institutions must aim to nurture responsible citizens who embody equality, dignity, and inclusivity in their everyday conduct, noting that a truly excellent campus guarantees safety, respect, and equal opportunities for all students, faculty, and staff.
JSFDA Nodal Officer at SKMU, Dr. Sujit Kumar Soren, welcomed the delegates and outlined the workshop’s framework aimed at creating gender-responsive educational environments. JSFDA Coordinator Dr. Piyush Malpaharia detailed various state initiatives designed for faculty capacity building, while Vishal Prasad, Academic Manager from the Department of Higher and Technical Education, Ranchi, underscored the vital need for inclusive campus cultures. Resource persons Preamlata Poonia and R. Sachdeva conducted interactive sessions on constitutional values, gender equity, and practical inclusion strategies. The opening day, coordinated by Dr. Himadri Shekhar Dutta, saw active participation from university leaders, faculty members, and collegiate delegates from across the region.
